The Secrets of Bearings

Light contact, full contact, ceramic and needle roller bearings in bicycles

Bearings play a crucial role in many mechanical applications, and in bicycles, the proper choice of these components is vital to ensuring smooth and efficient performance. In the world of sealed bearings, there are a variety of options available, each designed to meet specific needs.

Let's explore light contact, full contact, ceramic and needle roller sealed bearings to better understand their characteristics and applications. Sealed bearings: Overview Sealed bearings play a vital role in environments where contamination from dust, humidity and other elements jeopardises performance throughout the bike's use. These bearings are encapsulated in seals that protect the inner balls or rollers to ensure smooth, long-lasting operation.

Light Contact Bearings

The perfect balance between sealing and low friction

Light contact sealed bearings are designed to offer an ideal balance between efficient sealing and low friction. The light contact seal reduces drag, providing energy efficiency and extending bearing life. These bearings are ideal for applications where friction resistance is a crucial consideration.

Full Contact Bearings

Maximum Sealing for Harsh Environments

Full contact" bearings are distinguished by the total seal they provide. This feature is especially valuable on bicycles, where environmental conditions can vary dramatically. By completely protecting the balls, these bearings ensure superior resistance against the ingress of dirt, moisture and other contaminants, thus prolonging service life and consistent performance. In a bike's drivetrain, "full contact" bearings boost performance by minimising friction and maximising efficiency, these bearings contribute to more direct power transmission and more immediate response.

Ceramic Bearings

The Revolution in Bearing Technology

Ceramic sealed bearings represent the cutting edge of bearing technology. Made with ceramic balls instead of steel, these bearings offer a number of benefits, including wear resistance, high temperature resistance and reduced weight. In addition, ceramic is less prone to corrosion, providing a longer service life compared to traditional bearings.

Needle Roller Bearings

Elegance in Efficiency and Load

Needle roller bearings are known for their ability to support high radial loads in small spaces. With thin, elongated cylindrical rollers, these bearings offer a larger contact area, distributing the load more efficiently. This design makes needle roller bearings a popular choice in bicycle transmission and suspension components. We can find this type of bearing in rear derailleurs that contribute to smoother, softer shifting.

The relationship between bearings and bicycles and their concepts

Rotation

Transmission: In the transmission of a bicycle, bearings are essential to allow smooth rotation whether in the pedal movement, wheel hubs or pulleys.

Compression

Frame and Suspension: Here bearings also play an important role in the suspension and frame to absorb compression loads during cornering and manoeuvring.

Steering: The bearings in the steering box, for example, help support the vertical and compression load that is applied to the handlebars.

Maintenance and Life Extension

Regardless of the type of bearing used in a bicycle, regular maintenance is essential to ensure smooth operation and thus extend its service life. Proper lubrication and periodic inspections help prevent premature wear and ensure that bearings continue to fulfil their role on a bicycle.